Nile Air

"Khabarovsk Airlines" (KhabAvia) is not just a regional carrier, but a true "lifeline" for the residents of the Khabarovsk Krai. Founded in 2004, the airline undertook a critical mission — to connect the "mainland" with remote taiga villages and northern districts, which are often inaccessible by train or car. Like aerial bridges, KhabAvia flights span the endless expanses of the taiga, mountain ranges, and the waters of the Sea of Okhotsk, ensuring stable connections where nature dictates its harsh conditions.

Wings of the Far East

The main feature of the airline is its unique fleet and flight geography. The Khabarovsk Airlines fleet consists of reliable aircraft capable of operating in difficult climatic conditions and landing on unpaved runways. The backbone of the fleet comprises the legendary turboprop An-24 and the lighter, versatile L-410 aircraft. These machines are ideally suited for the short runways of small airports and ensure regular service even in the most inclement weather.

Social Mission and Routes

The carrier's operations have a distinctly social character. For many settlements, aircraft with the "NI" code are the only means of transport delivering mail, cargo, and passengers to the regional center. The route network covers key points of the region. The most popular destination is Okhotsk — a historic port on the shores of the Sea of Okhotsk. Regular flights also connect the hub with the village of Bogorodskoe and other hard-to-reach corners of the region.

Safety and Experience

Khabarovsk Airlines pilots are top-class professionals possessing unique experience in flying over featureless terrain and in low-temperature conditions. Flight safety is the absolute priority of the company, confirmed by the regular renewal of airworthiness certificates and strict technical maintenance of vessels at their own base in Khabarovsk. The enterprise takes pride in its role in the region's development, ensuring population mobility across a territory larger than many European states.

Communication with a regional carrier is especially important when it comes to flying in the complex weather conditions of the Far East. To check the schedule, verify flight status, or issue a subsidized ticket, we recommend using the official channels of "Khabarovsk Airlines" — company staff promptly consult passengers both by phone and via messaging apps.

Official Website

The current schedule and online departures/arrivals board are always available on the company's main resource:

khabavia.ru

Contact Details

• Official Website: khabavia.ru — here you can purchase tickets without commission.
• Information Desk and Hotline: +7 (4212) 26-20-31 (for general inquiries).
• Booking and Ticket Purchase (Airport Ticket Office): +7 (924) 300-85-65.
• City Centre Ticket Office: +7 (924) 300-85-62.
• Email: info@khabavia.ru — for official requests and appeals.

Social Media

The airline is very active on social networks. This is the best way to quickly find out about schedule changes due to weather (which happens often in the north) or ask a representative a question:

• Telegram: t.me/khabavia (operational flight information)
• VKontakte: vk.com/khabavia

Offices and Representatives

You can visit sales offices in person to issue tickets or obtain certificates:

• Central Office: Khabarovsk, Matveevskoe Highway, 47.
• Airport Ticket Office: Khabarovsk, International Airport (Domestic Terminal), 3rd floor.
• City Ticket Office: Khabarovsk, Muravyov-Amursky St., 32.

Please note: Phone numbers and office operating hours are subject to change. We recommend verifying information on the official website before contacting them.

Baggage Allowance Rules

Travel across the Khabarovsk Krai often takes place on small regional aircraft, where every kilogram of weight matters. Therefore, baggage transport rules at "Khabarovsk Airlines" may differ from the standard allowances of large federal carriers. We have prepared a detailed guide to help you pack correctly and avoid excess fees at the airport.

Hand Luggage: Essentials Only

Strict safety standards apply on all airline flights, regardless of the aircraft type. Passengers are entitled to take items into the cabin that may be needed during the flight or are valuable.

• Weight: The standard free hand luggage allowance is usually up to 5 kg.
• Dimensions: Dimensions must not exceed established standards (typically the sum of three dimensions is no more than 115 cm) so the bag fits easily under the seat in front or in the overhead bin.
• What is included: In addition to the established allowance, you may carry a lady's handbag or briefcase, a document folder, an umbrella, a cane, a bouquet of flowers, outerwear, reading material for the flight, baby food for a child, a phone, a camera, a video camera, and a laptop into the cabin free of charge.

Checked Baggage

Free baggage allowances depend on the aircraft type and your ticket tariff. Since Khabarovsk is a hub airport, cargo processing for flights to remote districts most often occurs here.

• An-24 and An-26: On these aircraft types, the free baggage allowance (including hand luggage) is usually 20 kg per passenger.
• L-410: For flights on light L-410 aircraft, requirements are stricter due to limited take-off weight. The allowance is often limited to 10 kg (including hand luggage).
• Pooling Baggage: If you are travelling as a family or group, free baggage allowances can be combined, but the weight of a single suitcase must not exceed 30 kg.

Excess Baggage

If your items weigh more than the allowance, you will have to pay for the excess. Payment is made at the departure airport ticket office before check-in according to current airline tariffs.

Important: On small aircraft (especially the L-410), cargo capacity is very limited. Carriage of excess baggage is performed only if there is free space on board. If you plan to carry many items, we strongly recommend coordinating this with the airline in advance, at the ticket booking stage.

Specific Items and Sports Equipment

Given the specifics of the region, many passengers carry fishing gear, hunting weapons, or skis. Special rules apply to such items:

• Weapons and Ammunition: Carriage of weapons is possible only in checked baggage, in an unloaded state, and in a special case. At check-in, you must present a permit for the right to store and carry the weapon. The weapon is handed over to the crew and returned to the passenger at the arrival airport.
• Sports Equipment: Skis, snowboards, and fishing tackle are included in the free baggage allowance. If they exceed weight or dimensions, a surcharge will be required.
• Animals: Transport of pets is possible only by prior arrangement and with veterinary documents.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

For flight safety purposes, strictly prohibited items in both hand luggage and checked baggage include:

• Explosives and fireworks.
• Compressed and liquefied gases (including lighter refill canisters).
• Flammable liquids and solids.
• Oxidizing substances and peroxides.
• Toxic and poisonous substances.

Pay special attention to rules regarding the export of caviar and fish. When departing from airports in the Khabarovsk Krai, checks may be conducted for compliance with RF legislation regarding labeling and weight of transported delicacies.

Packing Tips

Flights on local airlines have their own romance and peculiarities. To ensure a comfortable flight, use our recommendations:

1. Soft bag over suitcase. In the luggage compartments of small planes (especially the L-410), it is easier to stow soft backpacks or sports bags than rigid plastic suitcases.
2. Warm clothes on top. The weather in the north is changeable. Even if it is warm in Khabarovsk, it may be windy and cool at your destination. Pack a jacket so it can be easily accessed immediately after landing.
3. Labeling. Attach a tag with your name and phone number to your luggage. This helps quickly find the owner in case the luggage accidentally flies on another flight or is offloaded at an intermediate stop.

Travelling with Pets

"Khabarovsk Airlines" understands that pets are an important part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as possible. However, considering the specifics of regional aircraft (An-24, L-410), transporting animals requires careful preparation and strict adherence to safety rules. We have prepared a detailed guide so that your flight with your four-legged friend goes without stress.

Transport Options

The method of transport depends on the weight of the animal together with the cage and the type of aircraft. Be sure to report your intention to transport a pet when purchasing a ticket, as the number of places for animals on board is limited.

This option is suitable for small cats and dogs that can comfortably fit in a carrier under the seat in front.

• Weight: Usually, animals weighing up to 8 kg including the container are permitted.
• Carrier Dimensions: Dimensions must not exceed 115 cm in the sum of three dimensions (approximately 55×40×20 cm) to guarantee placement under the seat.
• Permitted Animals: Cats, dogs, birds (in cages).
• Carrier Requirements: The container must be well-ventilated, close securely, and have a waterproof bottom. The bottom must be covered with absorbent material.
• Limit: One passenger may transport only one cage.

If the pet weighs more than 8 kg, it must travel in the luggage compartment. Please note: on L-410 type aircraft, luggage compartment capabilities are severely limited, so be sure to clarify the possibility of transport on a specific flight in advance.

• Container: Must be made of rigid impact-resistant plastic or wood (not a wire cage). The animal must be able to stand at full height and turn 360 degrees.
• Safety: The cage must have a secure lock that prevents accidental opening.
• Bottom: An absorbent pad is mandatory.
• Documents: Copies of veterinary documents are often requested to be attached to the cage.

For transporting very large dogs, exotic animals, or if the animal is flying unaccompanied.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds 50 kg or if required by legislation.
• Procedure: Processed through the cargo terminal of the departure airport (Khabarovsk and others).
• Requirements: Must be coordinated with the airline's cargo service in advance.

Necessary Documents

Before departure, ensure your pet has a complete set of documents. Transport will be refused without them.

• Veterinary Passport: With records of vaccinations and general health status.
• Rabies Vaccination: The vaccination must be administered no earlier than one year and no later than 21 days before departure.
• Veterinary Certificate (Form No. 1): Required for flights between regions or if stipulated by current veterinary requirements (we recommend obtaining this at a state veterinary clinic 3-5 days before departure).
• For Birds and Exotics: Additional certificates and permits may be required.

Service Costs

Animal transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is always paid additionally. Tariffs may change, but the general structure is as follows:

• In Cabin: Fixed rate per piece (as for excess baggage or special category).
• In Luggage Compartment: Cost is calculated based on the weight of the animal together with the cage.
• Route Dependency: On flights to remote points (for example, to Okhotsk or Bogorodskoe), tariffs may differ from short flights.

Pre-flight Preparation Tips

• Cage Training: Allow your pet to get used to the carrier in advance, several days before the flight, so it becomes a safe place for them.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal heavily 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness. Give a little water.
• Reducing Stress: Put a favourite toy or an item with the owner's scent in the cage. It is not recommended to give strong sedatives without consulting a veterinarian, as they may affect heart rate at altitude.
• Check Locks: Before handing over to baggage, double-check the security of the cage latches.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse transport in the following cases:

• Prohibited Breeds: Dogs belonging to brachycephalic breeds (with flattened snouts: Pugs, Bulldogs, Pekingese) may have breathing difficulties at altitude. Transport of such animals is often restricted or requires signing a liability waiver.
• Aggressive Animals: Fighting dog breeds without muzzles and reinforced cages.
• Sick Animals: Pets with signs of infectious diseases or suspicious behaviour.
• Exceptions: Guide dogs accompanying passengers with visual impairments are transported free of charge in the cabin provided they have a muzzle and leash.

Important: Aviation security rules may change. We strongly recommend contacting "Khabarovsk Airlines" representatives by phone or via messengers 24–48 hours before departure to clarify current requirements and confirm the reservation for your pet.

Loyalty Programme and Affordable Flights

Unlike large federal carriers focused on commercial profit, "Khabarovsk Airlines" primarily performs a critical social function. Currently, the airline does not have a classic bonus programme with mileage accumulation and status levels (Gold, Platinum, etc.). Instead of marketing privileges, the carrier focuses on the real accessibility of air travel for residents of the region, offering subsidized tariffs and special conditions for flights.

Social Mission Instead of Miles

The main "privilege" for KhabAvia passengers is the opportunity to purchase tickets at a reduced cost thanks to the support of the Khabarovsk Krai government. The airline ensures transport connectivity of hard-to-reach districts with the regional centre — the city of Khabarovsk. Special preferential programmes apply to residents of northern territories and certain categories of citizens.

Who can benefit from concessions:

• Youth and Pensioners: Special fares apply on many routes for citizens under the age of 23, women over 55, and men over 60.
• Residents of Northern Districts: Special quotas of seats at subsidized prices are provided for those permanently residing in remote villages (for example, in the area of the port of Okhotsk or the village of Bogorodskoe).
• Disabled Persons and Attendants: Preferential conditions extend to Group I disabled persons, disabled children, and their accompanying persons.

United Far Eastern Airline

"Khabarovsk Airlines" is a strategic partner and participant in the United Far Eastern Airline project, being created on the basis of "Aurora" Airlines. This cooperation opens new prospects for passengers:

• Route Network Expansion: Integration allows connecting local flights with trunk routes throughout the Far East.
• Bonus Programme Prospects: Deeper service integration is planned for the future, which may allow "Khabarovsk Airlines" passengers to join the "Aurora" airline loyalty programme and accumulate bonuses for flights across the unified network.

How to Fly Cheaper Right Now

Since miles cannot be accumulated yet, we recommend following simple rules to save on your travel budget:

1. Buy in Advance: The number of subsidized tickets on each flight is limited. Plan your flight several months ahead, especially during the summer holiday season.
2. Check Residency: To issue concessional tickets under the regional programme, proof of permanent registration in the relevant district of the Khabarovsk Krai is often required.
3. Follow the News: Information about the opening of sales for the season and new subsidized destinations is promptly published on the official website and social networks of the airline.

Travel Classes and Onboard Service

Flying with "Khabarovsk Airlines" is travel in a regional aviation format, where the main priority is the reliability and accessibility of transport connections. Onboard service is organized taking into account the technical features of the aircraft (An-24, L-410) which form the backbone of the fleet. You will not find luxurious first-class cabins here, but you can count on the attentive attitude of the crew and the necessary set of services for a comfortable flight over the taiga.

Travel Classes

On most airline flights, a mono-class cabin configuration applies — "Economy" class. This is the standard accommodation option, ensuring the optimal balance of price and quality for subsidized and commercial transport within the region.

• Economy Class: The main and only class of service on scheduled flights. It includes the flight, baggage allowance (according to the tariff), and basic services on board.
• Business Class: Currently, a dedicated business class is generally not provided on scheduled flights operated by An-24 and L-410 aircraft types. All passengers are in equal conditions.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The level of comfort directly depends on the type of aircraft operating your flight (for example, to Khabarovsk or remote villages).

An-24
A classic turboprop aircraft. Seat configuration is usually 2x2. The cabin is spacious enough for a regional liner, and there are shelves for hand luggage. Seats have a standard pitch sufficient for flights lasting 2–3 hours. It is worth noting the increased noise level characteristic of this type of machinery — many experienced travellers recommend bringing earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones.

L-410
A light versatile aircraft resembling an "air taxi". The cabin here is compact, and standing at full height may be difficult for a tall person. Seat configuration is most often 1x2 (one seat on the left, two on the right) or 1x1.
Advantage: thanks to the seating scheme, there are no "middle" seats here — every passenger sits either by the window or the aisle. The windows in the L-410 are large, allowing you to enjoy panoramic views of the Khabarovsk Krai.

Food and Beverages

Catering service on "Khabarovsk Airlines" flights depends on the flight duration and aircraft type.

• Drinks: Passengers are offered refreshing water and, typically, juices or carbonated drinks on all flights.
• Food: On short routes (less than 2 hours), hot meals are usually not provided. On longer flights, for example to Okhotsk, passengers may be offered light snacks (sandwiches, confectionery) and hot tea or coffee.
• L-410: Due to the lack of a full galley and flight attendant on some L-410 flights, food service may be limited or absent (only bottled water provided). We recommend bringing a light snack if you are flying on this aircraft type.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Regional aircraft do not have multimedia screens or Wi-Fi on board. The main entertainment during the flight is the unique views outside the window: riverbeds, the Dzhugdzhur mountain ranges, and the endless taiga. We recommend planning your leisure time in advance:

• Download movies, music, or books to your smartphone or tablet before departure.
• Bring a portable charger (Power Bank), as there are no USB sockets in the seats of older aircraft models.
• Read the inflight magazine or local press if offered by the crew.

Special Services

Despite the harsh operating conditions, the airline cares for all categories of passengers.

Passengers with Children
Children under 2 years old fly on an adult's lap for free (without a separate seat). Discounts are provided for children from 2 to 12 years old. There are no special bassinets for infants on flights due to seat design, so parents should plan for comfortable holding of the child.

Unaccompanied Minors
The airline provides a service for transporting children under crew supervision. This is especially relevant when schoolchildren fly from remote villages (for example, from the village of Bogorodskoe) for study or holidays. The service is arranged in advance at sales offices.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility
Airline staff provide assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, it is worth remembering that regional aircraft often have built-in stairs with fairly steep steps. If you or your companion requires a wheelchair or assistance boarding, be sure to inform us when booking your ticket so that ground services can prepare the necessary means (ambulift or escort team).

The route network of "Khabarovsk Airlines" performs a critically important function, linking hard-to-reach districts of the region with the "mainland". The carrier's base hub is Khabarovsk airport, from where regular departures are made to northern settlements and coastal zones, ensuring stable communication where alternative transport is absent.

Tips for Travellers: Booking and Flying

Travelling around the Khabarovsk Krai requires a special approach to planning. Considering the specifics of regional aviation and the changeable climate of the Far East, we have collected key recommendations for you that will help save your budget and make flying with "Khabarovsk Airlines" as comfortable as possible.

Best Time to Buy Tickets

Ticket pricing on airline flights has its peculiarities. Since many routes (for example, to Okhotsk) are socially significant, tickets for them sell out very quickly.

• Sales Seasonality: The airline opens ticket sales seasonally (for winter and summer schedules). It is best to book a flight in the first days of sales opening to manage to buy seats at the most favourable rates.
• Plan Ahead: For flights during the holiday period (July–August) and public holidays, we recommend buying tickets 2–3 months in advance. On routes with low flight frequency, no seats may remain even a month before departure.
• Track Subsidies: If you fall into preferential categories (youth, pensioners, residents of the Far North regions), check for the availability of subsidized tariffs. They are fixed and significantly lower than market value, but their quantity on each flight is strictly limited.

Flight Check-in

"Khabarovsk Airlines" offers modern services to save passengers time. By using them, you can avoid queues at the airport.

• Online Check-in: Usually opens 24 hours and closes 1 hour before departure. You can select a seat and receive a boarding pass on the airline's website. This is especially convenient if you are flying with hand luggage only.
• At the Airport: If you have not checked in online or have baggage, arrive at Khabarovsk airport no later than 2 hours before departure. On local lines, check-in closes strictly 40 minutes before, and late passengers may not be allowed on board.

Seat Selection

The type of aircraft significantly affects in-flight comfort. Knowing the fleet features, you can choose the most comfortable seat.

• On An-24: The engines of this aircraft are located on the wings and create significant noise. If you are sensitive to sound, try to choose seats in the tail section of the cabin (from row 8 onwards) — it is significantly quieter there. Sightseers should remember that the wing and engine nacelle may block the view in the central rows.
• On L-410: In this small plane, practically every seat is "window" or "aisle". Thanks to large windows, visibility here is excellent from any row. If you are flying alone, try to choose a single seat in the row (1x2 configuration) to have more personal space.

Insurance and Safety

The weather in the Far East is unpredictable: fogs, cyclones, and blizzards often make adjustments to the schedule. Flights to points such as Bogorodskoe may be delayed for several hours or even days.

Our Advice: When purchasing a ticket, be sure to take out insurance covering risks of flight delay and cancellation. This helps compensate for food and hotel accommodation expenses in case of a long wait for departure due to weather conditions.

Digital Services and Mobile Access

Although the airline may lack a fully functional mobile app in the traditional sense, their digital services are adapted for smartphones:

• Mobile Website Version: Allows full management of booking: buying tickets, checking flight status, and checking in directly from your phone.
• Online Board: In changeable weather conditions, this is the most useful tool. We recommend adding the online board page to your smartphone browser bookmarks to promptly learn about departure time changes without making unnecessary calls to the call centre.

History and Development: From Local Flights to a Unified Network

The history of "Khabarovsk Airlines" is a chronicle of the development of transport accessibility in one of Russia's most complex and vast regions. Unlike commercial giants born in the era of privatization, this state enterprise was created with a specific pragmatic goal: not to let the sky "close" for residents of remote villages inaccessible by land.

Foundation and Formation

The Regional State Unitary Enterprise "Khabarovsk Airlines" was formed in 2004 by order of the Khabarovsk Krai government. At that time, regional aviation was going through a difficult period of transformation. The main task of the new structure was the preservation of socially significant routes within the region. The base airport became Khabarovsk, from where aerial bridges began to be built to northern territories.

The company's early years were spent under the aegis of restoring flight regularity. Residents of taiga districts received a guarantee that, despite economic storms, the plane would arrive, deliver mail and medicines, and allow travel to the "mainland".

Fleet Evolution: Betting on Reliability

The aircraft fleet was formed based on the harsh realities of Far Eastern airfields. Many landing sites in the region have dirt surfaces and short runways, making the use of modern Western liners impossible.

• Soviet Classics: The backbone of the fleet comprised reliable turboprop An-24 and An-26 aircraft. These machines, proven by decades of operation in Far North conditions, became the main "workhorses" on main regional lines.
• Modernization and L-410: An important stage of development was the acquisition of Czech L-410 UVP-E20 aircraft. These light versatile machines allowed increasing flight frequency to small settlements, such as Bogorodskoe, ensuring economic efficiency where the use of heavy An-24s was impractical.

Strategic Expansion and Legacy

An important milestone in the carrier's history was the period after 2008, when "Khabarovsk Airlines" supported the region by taking over the route network of the major carrier "Dalavia" which had left the market. This prevented a transport collapse and preserved qualified flight personnel.

The airline consistently expanded its flight geography, focusing on the Sea of Okhotsk coast. The route to Okhotsk — the oldest Russian town in the Far East — became the carrier's calling card and one of the busiest destinations.

New Era: United Far Eastern Airline

In recent years, "Khabarovsk Airlines" has entered a new phase of its development, becoming a participant in an ambitious state project. The enterprise is integrating into the holding of the United Far Eastern Airline, being created on the basis of "Aurora" Airlines. This strategic partnership opens new horizons for the regional carrier:

• Standard Updates: Implementation of modern digital booking services and improving passenger service quality.
• Code-sharing: Joint flight operation allows passengers from the hinterland to buy a single ticket to any point in Russia with a convenient transfer at the hub.
• Future Plans: It is expected that integration will accelerate fleet renewal with new generation domestic aircraft, such as the "Baikal" and Superjet 100, making flights over the taiga even more comfortable and safe.